The 300 square foot micro-condo is coming to Toronto. These small units will maximize the number of residential units available in an area with a high demand. For professionals who work long hours and spend little time at home, the conveniences of living in a walkable, mixed-use neighbourhood are more valuable than extra square footage. In such areas, the condo itself can indeed be smaller because the surrounding community serves as an extension of the living room and of the home. Nevertheless, they raise questions about how they will impact the diversity of residents and families living in Toronto’s downtown core.

One of the issues Toronto is currently facing comes as a consequence of this increasingly high value placed on location. By continually shrinking the size of the units and increasing the cost per square foot, Toronto’s city builders are, in essence, predetermining who is allowed to live in these walkable, vibrant, downtown communities.

For one, the choice to sacrifice space for place is only a choice for those who can afford it. Many households simply do not have the means; others are forced out of prime locations because they need more than the minimum amount of space to accommodate the size of their family, and the availability of three bedroom units is low.

Additionally, the developments are emphasizing only a certain type of occupant: the Kingsclub development is being advertised as “an exclusive condo for members only;” Smart House sends the message that only those smart enough for the “streamlined… well thought-out space” are welcome. The implication is that elitism is acceptable – and even desirable – in Toronto.

Who should decide which people live in walkable, well-located communities? The market alone, or is there a role for political intervention? What strategies has your city used in its development to address this issue?

Lindsay graduated from the University of Toronto with a bachelor’s degree in healthcare ethics. Her interest in the link between health and the built environment led her to take electives in urban studies. Last summer she tested this interest in urban planning at the Career Discovery program at Harvard University. She engaged deeply with the design and planning problems she studied, particularly community and economic development, and placemaking, and is now looking to attend graduate school in planning. Lindsay will be blogging about how Toronto is responding to the changing demands of its ever increasing and diversifying population and trying to create a healthier and more livable city and region.